THE CODE

FOR

THE CITY OF NEW BUFFALO

 

GENERAL ORDINANCES

PUBLISHED BY ORDER OF THE CITY COUNCIL

 

 

CITY OF NEW BUFFALO

BERRIEN COUNTY, MICHIGAN
{Ordinance CI (101) Effective April 18, 1995}

and

Ordinances adopted since April 18, 1995.

 

This edition is current as of April 20, 2011

 

 

 

 

 

 


TABLE OF CONTENTS

 

 

Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS... 1-1

Section 1-1.  How code designated and cited. 1-1

Section 1-2.  Rules of construction. 1-1

Section 1-3.  Catch lines of Sections, etc. 1-2

Section 1-4.  Effect of repeal. 1-2

Section 1-5.  Severability of parts of code. 1-3

Section 1-6.  Violations as municipal civil infractions; penalties. 1-3

Section 1-7.  Violations as misdemeanors; penalties. 1-3

Section 1-8.  Recovery of costs for prosecution. 1-3

 

Chapter 2 - ADMINISTRATION.... 2-1

ARTICLE I.  ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS BUREAU.. 2-1

Section 2-1.  Definitions. 2-1

Section 2-2.  Municipal civil infraction; commencement. 2-1

Section 2-3.  Municipal civil infraction citations; issuance and service. 2-1

Section 2-4.  Municipal civil infraction citations; contents. 2-2

Section 2-5.  Municipal Ordinance Violations Bureau. 2-3

ARTICLE II.  ORDINANCE ENFORCEMENT OFFICER.. 2-5

Section 2-6.  Office established. 2-5

Section 2-7.  Appointment of Ordinance Enforcement Officer. 2-5

Section 2-8.  Duties of Ordinance Enforcement Officer. 2-5

Section 2-9.  Appearance tickets, etc. 2-5

Section 2-10.  Authority of Ordinance Enforcement Officer. 2-5

ARTICLE III.  PLANNING COMMISSION. 2-6

Section 2-11.  Created; name. 2-6

Section 2-12.  Composition; appointment, qualifications, terms, and compensation of members; filling vacancies. 2-6

Section 2-13.  Officers; meetings; rules; records; quorum. 2-6

Section 2-14.  Employees, etc.; expenditures. 2-6

Section 2-15.  Adoption of master plan. 2-6

Section 2-16.  Powers and duties generally. 2-6

ARTICLE IV.  CIVIL SERVICE SYSTEM. 2-8

Section 2-17.  Civil Service Board - Created. 2-8

Section 2-18.  Same - Composition; appointment of members. 2-8

Section 2-19.  Same - Qualifications of members. 2-8

Section 2-20.  Same - Terms of members. 2-8

Section 2-21.  Same - Compensation of members. 2-8

Section 2-22.  Same - Chairperson; rules. 2-8

Section 2-23.  Same - Meetings generally. 2-8

Section 2-24.  Same - Powers. 2-8

Section 2-25.  Eligibility for civil service status - Generally. 2-8

Section 2-26.  Same - Probationary period. 2-9

Section 2-27.  Tenure of employment contingent on good behavior, etc.; procedure for lay-off, reduction, dismissal. 2-9

ARTICLE V.  LOCAL OFFICERS COMPENSATION COMMISSION. 2-10

Section 2-28.  Local Officers Compensation Commission; creation; composition; population; qualifications; terms of office; time of appointment; vacancies; eligibility restriction. 2-10

Section 2-29.  Determination of salaries; rejection by legislative resolution; effective date; existing salary; expenses. 2-10

Section 2-30.  Meetings and time of determination; quorum; chairperson; session days; compensation and expenses. 2-10

Section 2-31.  Open Meetings Act; compliance. 2-10

Section 2-32.  Freedom of Information Act; compliance. 2-10

Section 2-33.  Implementation by resolution; change of procedure; time and method. 2-11

ARTICLE VI.  LAND DIVISION.. 2-12

Section 2-34.  Purpose [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-12

Section 2-35.  Definitions [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-12

Section 2-36.  Prior Approval Requirement For Land Divisions [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-12

Section 2-37.  Application For Land Division Approval [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-12

Section 2-38.  Procedure for Review of Applications for Land Division Approval [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-13

Section 2-39.  Standards for Approval of Land Divisions [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-14

Section 2-40.  Allowance for Approval of Other Land Divisions [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-14

Section 2-41.  Consequences of Noncompliance with Land Division Approval Requirement [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-15

Section 2-42.  Penalties and Enforcement [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-15

Section 2-43.  Severability [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-15

Section 2-44.  Repeal [Ord. 109, 6/2/1997] 2-15

ARTICLE VII.  FINANCE.. 2-16

Section 2-45.  Purchase and Sale of Property-Dollar Value Limitations.  [Ord. 151, 5/24/2005] 2-16

ARTICLE VIII.  CODE OF ETHICS. 2-17

Section 2-46.  Title.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-17

Section 2-47.  Definitions.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-17

Section 2-48.  Intent and Purpose.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-17

Section 2-49.  Fair and Equal Treatment.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-18

Section 2-50.  Use of Public Property.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-18

Section 2-51.  Matters Requiring Disclosure of Conflicts of Interest, Actual and Potential.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-18

Section 2-52.  Prohibited Conduct.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-18

Section 2-53.  Public Disclosure, Contents.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-19

Section 2-54.  Duties of the Clerk.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-19

Section 2-55.  Advisory Opinions.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-20

Section 2-56.  Delivery of Copies of Ethics Code to Public Servants.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-21

Section 2-57.  Violations.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-21

Section 2-58.  Validity.  [Ord. 169, 9/8/2009] 2-22

 

Chapter 3 - ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES... 3-1

Section 3-1.  Purchase, possession, or transportation by minors. 3-1

Section 3-2.  Giving or furnishing to minors. 3-1

Section 3-3.  Minors under seventeen (17) in places where liquor, etc., is sold, etc. 3-1

Section 3-4.  Fraudulent identification. 3-1

Section 3-5.  Violations and penalties. 3-1

 

Chapter 4 - ANIMALS AND FOWL... 4-1

Section 4-1.  Permitting animals or fowl to run at large. 4-1

Section 4-2.  Cruelty to animals - Generally. 4-1

Section 4-3.  Same - Abandoning, etc., domestic animals. 4-1

 

Chapter 5 - BUILDING AND CONSTRUCTION.... 5-1

ARTICLE I.  CONSTRUCTION CODES. 5-1

Section 5-1.0  Building code agency designated. 5-1

Section 5-1.1  Adoption of State Code.  [Ord. 162, 11/14/2006] 5-1

Section 5-1.2  Penalties.  [Ord. 162, 11/14/2006] 5-1

Section 5-2.  Electrical code agency designated. 5-2

Section 5-3.  Mechanical code agency designated. 5-2

Section 5-4.  Plumbing code agency designated.  [Ord. 174, 2/19/2008] 5-2

ARTICLE II.  PROPERTY MAINTENANCE CODE. 5-3

Section 5-5.  Adoption of Property Maintenance Code.  [Ord. 179, 9/22/2008] 5-3

ARTICLE III.  SOIL EROSION AND SEDIMENTATION CONTROL. 5-4

Section 5-6.  Agency designation.  [Ord. 137, 7/30/2002] 5-4

Section 5-7.  Reserved. 5-4

Section 5-8.  When plan required. 5-4

Section 5-9.  Review of plans. 5-4

Section 5-10.  Inspections. 5-4

Section 5-11.  Bond provisions. 5-4

Section 5-12.  Appeals. 5-5

ARTICLE IV.  STANDARDS FOR THE DESIGN AND CONSTRUCTION OF PUBLIC WORKS PROJECTS. 5-6

Section 5-13.  Standards Adopted.  [Ord. 133, 9/18/2001] 5-6

ARTICLE V.  MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS. 5-7

Section 5-14.  Hours of Construction.  [Ord. 150, 3/23/2005] 5-7

ARTICLE VI.  FLOODPLAIN MANAGEMENT PROVISIONS. 5-8

Section 5-15.  Agency Designated.  [Ord. 158, 4/19/2006] 5-8

Section 5-16.  Code Appendix Enforced.  [Ord. 158, 4/19/2006] 5-8

Section 5-17.  Designation of Regulated Flood Prone Hazard Areas.  [Ord. 158, 4/19/2006] 5-8

 

Chapter 6 - FIRE PREVENTION CODE.... 6-1

ARTICLE I.  FIRE PREVENTION CODE. 6-1

Section 6-1.  Purposes of code. 6-1

Section 6-2.  Code designated.  [Ord. 166, 5/22/2007] 6-1

Section 6-3.  Unlawful to violate provisions of code, etc. 6-1

Section 6-4.  Enforcing officer designated, etc. 6-1

Section 6-5.  Duties of the Fire Chief and inspectors. 6-1

Section 6-6.  Procedures generally. 6-2

Section 6-7.  Fire investigation. 6-2

Section 6-8.  Inspection for permits. 6-2

Section 6-9.  Periodic inspection of premises. 6-2

Section 6-10.  Removal and abatement of violations and unsafe practices; notice to owner or occupant. 6-2

Section 6-11.  Fire reports and records. 6-3

Section 6-12.  Annual report. 6-3

Section 6-13.  Amendments to fire prevention code. 6-3

Section 6-14.  Applicability of code to public and private property. 6-3

Section 6-15.  Exercise of police powers. 6-3

Section 6-16.  Penalties for violation. 6-3

Section 6-17.  Board of appeals established. 6-4

Section 6-18.  Appendixes adopted. 6-4

Section 6-19.  Permit fee schedule. 6-4

Section 6-20.  Conflicting or inconsistent ordinances. 6-4

ARTICLE II.  FIRE LANE DESIGNATION AND REGULATIONS. 6-5

Section 6-21.  Blocking of fire lanes prohibited. 6-5

Section 6-22.  Definition of fire lanes.  [Ord. 136, 7/16/2002] 6-5

Section 6-23.  Designation of fire lanes. 6-5

Section 6-24.  Definition of tow-away zone. 6-5

Section 6-25.  Designation of tow-away zones. 6-5

ARTICLE III.  FIRE SERVICE CHARGES. 6-6

Section 6-26.  Fire Service Charges.  [Ord. 157, 4/19/2006] 6-6

Section 6-27.  Time for payment.  [Ord. 157, 4/19/2006] 6-6

Section 6-28.  Exemptions.  [Ord. 157, 4/19/2006] 6-6

Section 6-29.  Collection of Charges.  [Ord. 157, 4/19/2006] 6-6

Section 6-30.  Non-exclusive Charge.  [Ord. 157, 4/19/2006] 6-6

 

Chapter 7 - HARBOR.... 7-1

 

ARTICLE I.  HARBOR COMMISSION.. 7-1

Section 7-1.  Commission created. 7-1

Section 7-2.  Composition; appointment; terms of members; filling vacancies. 7-1

Section 7-3.  Compensation of members. 7-1

Section 7-5.  Meetings; rules of procedure. 7-1

Section 7-6.  Removal of members. 7-2

Section 7-7.  Powers and duties - Policies, rules, and regulations concerning harbor. 7-2

Section 7-8.  Same - Budget. 7-2

 

ARTICLE II.  REGULATIONS. 7-2

Section 7-9.  Harbor - Definition. 7-2

Section 7-10.  Rules and regulations. 7-2

Section 7-11.  Wharves, docks, and bulkhead walls. 7-3

Section 7-12.  No-wake speed; swimming; anchoring vessels. 7-3

Section 7-13.  Fueling of vessels at transient marina prohibited. 7-3

 

ARTICLE III.  EMERGENCY HARBOR DREDGING FUND. 7-3

Section 7-14.  Fund created.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-3

Section 7-15.  Purpose.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-3

Section 7-16.  Sources of revenue.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-3

Section 7-17.  Fee schedule.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-3

Section 7-18.  Annual contributions.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-4

Section 7-19.  Fund dedicated.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-4

Section 7-20.  Use of funds collected.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-4

Section 7-21.  Suspension of collection.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-4

Section 7-22.  Discontinuing fund.  [Ord. 181, 3/17/2009] 7-4

 

ARTICLE IV.  COMMERCIAL BOAT LAUNCHING FACILITY RULES. 7-4

Section 7-23.  In General.  [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-4

Section 7-24.  Application for usage of Municipal Boat Launches for Commercial Use.  [Ord. 167, 3/28/2007] 7-4

Section 7-25. Commercial Rates. [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-5

Section 7-26. Weight restrictions.  [Ord. 145, 5/18/2004] 7-5

Section 7-27.  Hours and Manners of Launch.  [Ord. 167, 3/28/2007] 7-5

Section 7-28.  Release of Liability.  [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-5

Section 7-29.  Penalties.  [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-5

Section 7-30.  Exceptions.  [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-6

Section 7-31.  Severability.  [Ord. 130, 4/17/2001] 7-6

 

ARTICLE V.  LAUNCHING OF WATERCRAFT AT PUBLIC BOAT LAUNCH FACILITY. 7-6

Section 7-32.  Launching Rules and Regulations.  [Ord. 168, 3/28/2007] 7-6

 

Chapter 8 - HAWKING AND PEDDLING.... 8-1

Section 8-1.  Council Approval Required.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-1

Section 8-2.  Application.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-1

Section 8-3.  Registration Process.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-1

Section 8-4.  Restrictions.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-1

Section 8-5.  Persons Peddling, Meats, Fish, Etc.; Prohibited.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-1

Section 8-6.  Exemptions.   [Ord. 194, 4/20/2011] 8-2

 

Chapter 9 - LICENSES GENERALLY... 9-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 9-1

Section 9-1.  Licensees for businesses not subject to personal property tax Required.   [Ord. 104, 9/17/1996] 9-1

Section 9-2.  Same – Businesses Defined.   [Ord. 104, 9/17/1996] 9-1

Section 9-3.  Same - Application.   [Ord. 104, 9/17/1996] 9-1

Section 9-4.  Same - Fee.   [Ord. 104, 9/17/1996] 9-1

Section 9-4.  Same - Violations.   [Ord. 104, 9/17/1996] 9-1

ARTICLE II.  TAXICAB LICENSES AND REGULATIONS. 9-2

Section 9-5.  Definitions.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-2

Section 9-6.  License.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-2

Section 9-7.  Application for license.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-2

Section 9-8.  Processing applications.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-3

Section 9-9.  Granting licenses.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-3

Section 9-10.  Number of licenses.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-3

Section 9-11.  Doors, entering and exiting.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-3

Section 9-12.  Issuance of license.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-13.  Property right.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-14.  License fee.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-15.  Licenses non-transferable.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-16.  Transfer of license to another vehicle.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-17.  Change of ownership.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-18.  Suspension or revocation of licenses.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-4

Section 9-19.  Insurance policy required.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-20.  Provisions of policy.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-21.  Limits of policy.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-22.  Bankruptcy or insolvency.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-23.  Notice of cancellation.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-24.  Effect of cancellation or termination of policy.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-5

Section 9-25.  Necessity for compliance.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-26.  Driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-27.  Application for driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-28.  Reserved.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-29.  Granting of driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-30.  Reserved.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-31.  Issuance of driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-6

Section 9-32.  Renewal of driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-33.  Driver's permit fees.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-34.  Transfer of driver's permit prohibited.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-35.  Revocation of driver's permit.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-36.  Delegation of duty.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-37.  Reserved.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-38.  Taxicab clearly marked.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-7

Section 9-39.  Rate card and display thereof.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-40.  Maintenance of equipment.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-41.  Compliance with laws and ordinances.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-42.  Report of accidents.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-43.  Dress.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-44.  Lost articles.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-45.  Cruising regulated.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-46.  Solicitation of other common carrier passenger prohibited.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-8

Section 9-47.  Passengers.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-9

Section 9-48.  Drivers drinking on duty prohibited.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-9

Section 9-49.  Immorality.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-9

Section 9-50.  Taxicab stands.  [Ord. 172, 11/13/2007] 9-9

ARTICLE III.  GARAGE SALE LICENSES. 9-10

Section 9-51.  Definitions.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-10

Section 9-52.  Permits and Fees.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-10

Section 9-53.  Licensing.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-10

Section 9-54.  Information to be filed.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-10

Section 9-55.  Exceptions.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-11

Section 9-56.  Time of Sales.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-11

Section 9-57.  Advertising.  [Ord. 126, 1/11/2000] 9-11

ARTICLE IV. PAWNBROKERS. 9-12

Section 9-58.  Definition.  [Ord. 170, 6/12/2007] 9-12

Section 9-59.  Licensing and Bond.  [Ord. 170, 6/12/2007] 9-12

Section 9-60.  Reporting Procedures.  [Ord. 170, 6/12/2007] 9-12

Section 9-61.  Penalty.  [Ord. 170, 6/12/2007] 9-13

 

Chapter 10 - MOTOR VEHICLES AND TRAFFIC.... 10-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 10-1

Section 10-1.  Uniform Traffic Code Adopted [Ord. 127, 5/17/2000] 10-1


ARTICLE II.  TRUCK TRAFFIC.. 10-5

Section 10-2.  Definitions. 10-5

Section 10-3.  Prohibitions. 10-5

Section 10-4.  Exceptions. 10-5

Section 10-5.  Authority to require weighing of vehicle. 10-6

Section 10-6.  Penalties. 10-6

ARTICLE III.  PARKING VIOLATIONS BUREAU.. 10-7

Section 10-7.  Creation. 10-7

Section 10-8.  Powers, duties, and membership. 10-7

Section 10-9.  Resolution of violations. 10-7

Section 10-10.  Delinquent violations. 10-7

Section 10-11.  Fines and penalties. 10-7

Section 10-12.  Receipt and accounting of fines and penalties. 10-7

ARTICLE IV.  PARKING AND STORING OF MOTOR VEHICLES. 10-8

Section 10-13.  Parking and storing of vehicles on rights-of-way. 10-8

Section 10-14.  Presumption. 10-8

Section 10-15.  Additional remedies. 10-8

ARTICLE V.  MOBILE HOMES, TRAILERS AND RECREATIONAL VEHICLES. 10-9

Section 10-16.  Definitions.  [Ord. 131, 6/12/2001] 10-9

Section 10-17.  Public parking.  [Ord. 131, 6/12/2001] 10-9

Section 10-18.  Parking outside of licensed park.  [Ord. 131, 6/12/2001] 10-9

Section 10-19.  Permit for temporary occupancy.  [Ord. 131, 6/12/2001] 10-10

Section 10-20.  Enforcement.  [Ord. 131, 6/12/2001] 10-10

 

Chapter 11 - NUISANCES... 11-1

Section 11-1.  Definition. 11-1

Section 11-2.  Public nuisance prohibited. 11-1

Section 11-3.  Certain public nuisances enumerated. 11-1

Section 11-4.  Procedure for abatement - Service of certain notices. 11-3

Section 11-5.  Same - Dangerous and uninhabitable structures. 11-3

Section 11-6.  Same - Other nuisances generally. 11-4

Section 11-7.  Additional Remedies. 11-4

 

Chapter 12 - OFFENSES -- MISCELLANEOUS... 12-1

Section 12-1.  Barbed wire fences, etc. 12-1

Section 12-2.  Curfew – Person (s) under seventeen (17) years age.  [Ord. 129, 11/21/2000] 12-1

Section 12-3.  Disorderly persons generally. 12-1

Section 12-4.  Driving, etc., along shores of Lake Michigan. 12-1

Section 12-5.  Fireworks and explosives - Exploding without permit. 12-1

Section 12-6.  Liquor - Consuming or offering prohibited in certain places. 12-1

Section 12-7.  Nude swimming or bathing. 12-1

Section 12-8.  Resisting, obstructing, etc., City officers; rescuing persons apprehended for violations. 12-2

Section 12-9.  Weapons - Discharging firearm or air rifle. 12-2

Section 12-10.  Riding bicycle or skateboard on sidewalk.  [Ord. 128, 11/21/2000] 12-2

Section 12-11.  Marijuana Prohibited.  [Ord. 134, 1/22/2002] 12-2

Section 12-12.  Drug Paraphernalia  [Ord. 140, 11/27/2002] 12-2

Section 12-13.  Structures and Gates.  [Ord. 115, 3/31/1998] 12-3

Section 12-14.  Loitering.  [Ord. 153, 11/15/2005] 12-3

Section 12-15.  Parental Responsibility.  [Ord. 154, 11/15/2005] 12-4

 

Chapter 13 - PARADES AND MARCHES... 13-1

Section 13-1.  Permit - Required. 13-1

Section 13-2.  Same - Application. 13-1

Section 13-3.  Same - Issuance; fee. 13-1

Section 13-4.  Same - Contents. 13-1

Section 13-5.  Same - Effective period. 13-1

 

Chapter 14 - PARKS AND RECREATION.... 14-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 14-1

Section 14-1.  Damaging, removing, etc., park property; depositing refuse in parks, playgrounds, recreational areas. 14-1

Section 14-2.  Beach use regulated. 14-1

Section 14-3.  Picnics, etc., restricted to designated areas. 14-1

Section 14-4.  Possession of glass, bottles, cans, etc., prohibited on beach. 14-1

Section 14-5.  Animals on City beach and park.  [Ord. 180, 9/22/2008] 14-1

Section 14-6.  Reserved.  [Ord. 168, 3/28/2007] 14-2

Section 14-7.  Alcoholic beverages prohibited.  [Ord. 155, 2/1/2006] 14-2

Section 14-8.  Swimming near and diving off breakwater prohibited. 14-2

Section 14-9 to Section 14-20.  Reserved. 14-2

ARTICLE II.  PARK AND RECREATION BOARD.. 14-2

Section 14-21.  Created.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-2

Section 14-22.  Composition; appointment and terms of members; filling vacancies.  [Ord. 164, 1/16/2007] 14-2

Section 14-23.  Compensation of members; members not to be employees of the city.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-2

Section 14-24.  Organization; officers; quorum.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

Section 14-25.  Meetings; rules of procedure.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

Section 14-26.  Removal of members.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

Section 14-27.  Powers and duties - Policies, rules and regulations concerning city parks, etc.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

Section 14-28.  Same - Gifts, appropriations, bequests, etc.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

Section 14-29.  Same - Budget.  [Ord. 160, 8/29/2006] 14-3

 

Chapter 15 - SOLID WASTE DISPOSAL AND RECYCLING.... 15-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 15-1

Section 15-1.  Depositing, etc., slops, filthy substances, refuse, etc., on sidewalk, street, etc. 15-1

ARTICLE II.  SOLID WASTE.. 15-2

Section 15-2.  Definitions. 15-2

Section 15-3.  Contract for collection generally. 15-2

Section 15-4.  Same - Bond required. 15-2

Section 15-5.  Power of City Manager to make regulations. 15-2

Section 15-6.  Fees and charges generally. 15-2

Section 15-7.  Separation of garbage and rubbish. 15-3

Section 15-8.  Reserved. 15-3

Section 15-9.  Placing raw refuse, etc., in prohibited places. 15-3

Section 15-10.  Appeals to City Council. 15-4

ARTICLE III.  WEEDS AND OTHER NOXIOUS VEGETATION.. 15-4

Section 15-11.  Duty of property owners to cut and destroy.  [Ord. 147, 10/20/2004] 15-4

Section 15-12.  Notice to property owners to cut and destroy; removal by City upon failure of owner to comply. 15-4

Section 15-13.  Responsibility of property owner for City expense.  [Ord. 182, 12/16/2008] 15-4

Section 15-14.  Procedure for collection and cutting expense when owner fails to pay upon being billed. 15-4

ARTICLE IV.  UNLAWFUL REMOVAL OF MATERIALS SET OUT FOR RECYCLING COLLECTION. 15-5

Section 15-15.  Purpose. 15-5

Section 15-16.  Definitions. 15-5

Section 15-17.  Designation of items. 15-5

Section 15-18.  Ownership of recyclable materials. 15-5

Section 15-19.  Unauthorized collection. 15-5

 

Chapter 16 - SEWERS AND SEWAGE DISPOSAL... 16-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 16-1

Section 16-1.  Definitions. 16-1

Section 16-2.  Operation of system as public utility. 16-2

Section 16-3.  Fiscal or operating year of system. 16-3

Section 16-4.   Management, supervision, and control of system generally. 16-3

Section 16-5.  Rates and charges generally.  [Ord. 176, , 4/15/2008] 16-3

Section 16-6.  Mandatory sewer connections.  [Ord. 176, , 4/15/2008] 16-4

Section 16-7.  Disposition of revenues; budget for system. 16-5

Section 16-8.  Books and records; audits. 16-5

ARTICLE II.  RULES AND REGULATIONS. 16-6

Section 16-9.  Use of public sewers required. 16-6

Section 16-10.  Private sewage disposal. 16-7

Section 16-11.  Building sewers and connections. 16-7

Section 16-12.  Use of public sewers and rates and liens. 16-8

Section 16-13.  Protection from damage. 16-10

Section 16-14.  Powers and authority of inspectors. 16-10

Section 16-15.  Penalties and enforcement. 16-11

 

Chapter 17 - SPECIAL ASSESSMENT IMPROVEMENTS... 17-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 17-1

Section 17-1.  Definitions. 17-1

ARTICLE II.  ADVISORY PETITIONS. 17-1

Section 17-2.  Generally; effect. 17-1

Section 17-3.  Contents. 17-1

Section 17-4.  Filing; verification; referral to City Manager; Council presentation. 17-1

ARTICLE III.  IMPROVEMENT PROCEDURE GENERALLY. 17-2

Section 17-5.  Initiatory resolution. 17-2

Section 17-6.  Preparation of plans and specifications, etc. 17-2

Section 17-7.  Report and recommendations of City Manager. 17-2

Section 17-8.  Public Hearing - Notice. 17-2

Section 17-9.  Same - Conduct, etc.; objections and changes. 17-2

Section 17-10.  Resolution of determination. 17-2

Section 17-11.  Special assessment roll - Preparation, etc. 17-3

Section 17-12.  Same - Certificate of Assessor; filing and presentation to Council. 17-3

Section 17-13.  Same - Filing for examination by public; notice of hearing for review. 17-3

Section 17-14.  Same - Written objections generally. 17-3

Section 17-15.  Same - Hearing for review generally; consideration of objections. 17-3

Section 17-16.  Same - Corrections and changes. 17-3

Section 17-17.  Same - Confirmation generally; referral for revision or annulment. 17-4

Section 17-18.  Same - Certificate of confirmation; effect of confirmation. 17-4

Section 17-19.  Four-fifths (4/5) vote of Council required upon majority objection to improvement. 17-4

Section 17-20.  Special contractual procedure. 17-4

ARTICLE IV.  SIDEWALK PROCEDURE. 17-5

Section 17-21.  Duty of abutting owners relative to sidewalk construction and maintenance general. 17-5

Section 17-22.  Initiatory resolution for construction, etc. 17-5

Section 17-23.  Preparation of plans and specifications, etc. 17-5

Section 17-24.  Report and recommendations of City Manager. 17-5

Section 17-25.  Resolution of determination; notice of work to be done. 17-5

Section 17-26.  Alternate procedure for initiation by City. 17-5

Section 17-27.  Work done by City - Resolution ordering work, etc. 17-6

Section 17-28.  Same - Duties of City Manager generally. 17-6

Section 17-29.  Same - Resolution as to assessment of costs, etc. 17-6

Section 17-30.  Same - Special assessment roll - Preparation, etc. 17-6

Section 17-31.  Same - Same - Certificate of Assessor; filing and presentation to Council. 17-6

Section 17-32.  Same - Same - Filing for public examination; notice of hearing for review. 17-6

Section 17-33.  Same - Same - Hearing for review generally; consideration of objections. 17-7

Section 17-34.  Same - Same - Corrections and changes. 17-7

Section 17-35.  Same - Confirmation. 17-7

Section 17-36.  Alternate proceeding under general improvement procedure. 17-7

ARTICLE V.  SINGLE LOT PROCEDURE.. 17-8

Section 17-37.  Report of City Manager. 17-8

Section 17-38.  Resolution of determination. 17-8

Section 17-39.  Special assessment roll - Preparation, etc. 17-8

Section 17-40.  Same - Certificate of Assessor; filing and presentation to Council. 17-8

Section 17-41.  Same - Filing for public examination; notice of hearing for review. 17-8

Section 17-42.  Same - Hearing for review generally; consideration of objections. 17-9

Section 17-43.  Same - Corrections and changes. 17-9

Section 17-44.  Same - Confirmation. 17-9

ARTICLE VI.  LIEN GENERALLY. 17-10

Section 17-45.  Created and established. 17-10

Section 17-46.  Character and effect. 17-10

Section 17-47.  Destruction or impairment. 17-10

Section 17-48.  Effect of failure of owner to receive notice. 17-10

Section 17-49.  Personal liability of owner. 17-10

ARTICLE VII.  INSTALLMENTS AND COLLECTION OF LIEN. 17-11

Section 17-50.  Maximum number and minimum amount of installments. 17-11

Section 17-51.  Due dates. 17-11

Section 17-52.  First installment spread. 17-11

Section 17-53.  Annual installment spread. 17-11

Section 17-54.  Notice to pay - Publication. 17-11

Section 17-55.  Same - Notice by mail. 17-11

Section 17-56.  Collection of fees and penalties. 17-11

Section 17-57.  Contested assessments. 17-12

ARTICLE VIII.  REBATES, REASSESSMENTS, AND ADDITIONAL ASSESSMENTS. 17-13

Section 17-58.  Certification, etc., of actual cost of improvement. 17-13

Section 17-59.  Additional assessments. 17-13

Section 17-60.  Excess assessments and refunds generally. 17-13

Section 17-61.  Refund procedure on installments. 17-13

Section 17-62.  Refunds restricted. 17-13

Section 17-63.  Illegal or invalid assessments. 17-13

Section 17-64.  Proceedings on reassessment. 17-13

ARTICLE IX.  MISCELLANEOUS PROVISIONS AND RESTRICTIONS. 17-14

Section 17-65.  Assessment limited to value of benefits. 17-14

Section 17-66.  Money to be held in special fund. 17-14

Section 17-67.  Use of funds restricted. 17-14

Section 17-68.  Reduction for prepayment. 17-14

 

Chapter 18 - STREETS AND SIDEWALKS... 18-1

 

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 18-1

Section 18-1.  Encroachments and obstructions generally. 18-1

Section 18-2.  Building materials on sidewalks, etc. 18-1

Section 18-3.  Obstruction of gutters, ditches, etc. 18-1

Section 18-4.  Removal of snow, ice, etc., from sidewalks. 18-1

Section 18-5.  Certain signs and awnings prohibited. 18-1

Section 18-6.  Trees and shrubs.  [Ord. 185, 7/7/2009] 18-1

Section 18-7  Sidewalks Required for New Construction in Commercial Zones.  [Ord. 148, 3/16/2005] 18-2

Section 18-8. Additional penalties. 18-3

ARTICLE II.  OPENINGS AND EXCAVATIONS. 18-4

Section 18-9.  Permit required. 18-4

Section 18-10.  Closing requirements. 18-4

Section 18-11.  Expenses. 18-4

ARTICLE III.  NUMBERING BUILDINGS. 18-4

Section 18-12.  Duty of owners, etc.; plan. 18-4

Section 18-13.  Changing numbers. 18-4

Section 18-14.  Size and location. 18-4

Section 18-15.  Plat of streets, etc., showing numbers. 18-5

Section 18-16.  Penalty for failure to number buildings. 18-5


ARTICLE IV.  VACATIONS. 18-5

Section 18-17.  Vacations of rights-of-way. 18-5

ARTICLE V.  PERMITS FOR TELECOMMUNICATIONS COMPANIES TO USE PUBLIC RIGHTS-OF-WAY. 18-9

Section 18-18.  Purpose.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-9

Section 18-19.  Conflict.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-9

Section 18-20.  Terms Defined.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-9

Section 18-21.  Permit Required.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-10

Section 18-22.  Issuance of Permit.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-11

Section 18-23.  Construction/ Engineering Permit.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-11

Section 18-24.  Conduit or Utility Poles.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-11

Section 18-25.  Route Maps.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-11

Section 18-26.  Repair of Damage.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-27.  Establishment and Payment of Maintenance Fee.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-28.  Modification of Existing Fees.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-29.  Savings Clause.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-30.  Use of Funds.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-31.  Annual Report.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-32.  Cable Television Operators.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-12

Section 18-33.  Existing Rights.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-13

Section 18-34.  Compliance.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-13

Section 18-35.  Reservation of Police Powers.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-14

Section 18-36.  Severability.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-14

Section 18-37.  Authorized City Officials.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-14

Section 18-38.  Municipal Civil Infraction.  [Ord. 139, 10/16/2002] 18-14

ARTICLE VI.  VACATION OF STREETS. 18-15

Section 18-39.  Initiation of Proceedings.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-15

Section 18-40.  Petition.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-15

Section 18-41.  Fee.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-15

Section 18-42.  Planning Commission-Hearing and Notice.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-15

Section 18-43.  Appraisals and Appraisal Fees.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-16

Section 18-44.  City Planning Commission Report.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-16

Section 18-45.  City Council Hearing Notice.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-16

Section 18-46.  City Council Public Hearing Procedures.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-16

Section 18-47.  Objections/Vote Required.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-17

Section 18-48.  Criteria for Granting Street Vacation.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-17

Section 18-49.  Right to Reserve Easements.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-17

Section 18-50.  Voluntary Agreement between City and Applicant.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-17

Section 18-51.  Final Decision.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-18

Section 18-52.  Title.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-18

Section 18-53.  Vacation Petition File Content and Availability.  [Ord. 163, 11/14/2006] 18-18

 

Chapter 19 - WATER.... 19-1

ARTICLE I.  IN GENERAL. 19-1

Section 19-1.  Contamination and pollution generally. 19-1

Section 19-2.  Constructing or maintaining possible source of contamination, etc. within 200 feet of municipal wells. 19-1

ARTICLE II.  MUNICIPAL WATER SERVICE. 19-1

Section 19-3.  Applications for service. 19-1

Section 19-4.  Municipal water service fee billing.  [Ord. 176, 4/15/2008] 19-1

Section 19-5.  Disposition of revenues derived; "water system fund account.". 19-1

Section 19-6.  Records and accounts; annual audit. 19-1

Section 19-7.  Applicability of rates, etc. 19-2

Section 19-8.  Tap-in and connection charges. 19-2

Section 19-9.  Ready-to-serve charge. 19-2

Section 19-10.  Metered rates generally. 19-2

Section 19-11.  Water furnished to City - Generally. 19-2

Section 19-12.  Same - Fire hydrant charges. 19-2

Section 19-13.  Bills and billing generally; penalty for late payment.  [Ord. 176, 4/15/2008] 19-2

Section 19-14.  Billing duty for municipal water service.  [Ord. 176, 4/15/2008] 19-2

Section 19-15.  Shutting off water in event of nonpayment; collection procedures; etc.  [Ord. 176, 4/15/2008] 19-3

Section 19-16.  Service outside City. 19-3

Section 19-17.  Revision of rates and charges. 19-3

Section 19-18.  Tampering with water system prohibited. 19-3

Section 19-19.  Emergency Reduction of Water Use.  [Ord. 143, 4/16/2003] 19-4

ARTICLE III.  CROSS CONNECTIONS. 19-5

Section 19-20.  Cross connection rules adopted by reference. 19-5

Section 19-21.  Cross connection inspections. 19-5

Section 19-22.  Right of entry for inspections. 19-5

Section 19-23.  Discontinuance of water for violation. 19-5

Section 19-24.  Labeling unsafe water. 19-5

Section 19-25.  Supplementary to codes. 19-5

 

Chapter 20 - UTILITY FRANCHISES... 20-1

ARTICLE I.  CABLE TELEVISION.. 20-1

Section 20-1.  Definitions. 20-1

Section 20-2.  Grant of franchise permit. 20-2

Section 20-3.  Revocation of franchise permit. 20-2

Section 20-4.  Limitation of franchise. 20-3

Section 20-5.  Change of ownership. 20-3

Section 20-6.  Construction and installation of system. 20-3

Section 20-7.  Conditions on public way occupancy. 20-3

Section 20-8.  Safety requirements. 20-4

Section 20-9.  Erection, removal, and common use of poles. 20-4

Section 20-10.  Rights reserved to the City. 20-4

Section 20-11.  Maps, plats, and reports. 20-5

Section 20-12.  Carriage of signals. 20-5

Section 20-13.  Signal quality requirements. 20-5

Section 20-14.  Operation and maintenance of system. 20-5

Section 20-15.  Rates. 20-6

Section 20-16.  Capacity and commencement of system. 20-9

Section 20-17.  Liability insurance and indemnification. 20-9

Section 20-18.  Bond. 20-10

Section 20-19.  Financial records and reports. 20-10

Section 20-20.  Publication and preparation costs. 20-10

Section 20-21.  Annual franchise fee.  [Ord. 121, 2/16/1999] 20-10

ARTICLE II.  ELECTRICAL POWER.. 20-11

Section 20-22.  Granting of franchise. 20-11

Section 20-23.  Use of rights-of-way. 20-11

Section 20-24.  Time period; revocation of franchise; rights of City. 20-11

Section 20-25.  Hold harmless agreement. 20-11

Section 20-26.  Restoration of rights-of-way. 20-11

Section 20-27.  Binding effect. 20-12

ARTICLE III.  NATURAL GAS. 20-13

Section 20-28.  Grant of franchise. 20-13

Section 20-29.  Conditions. 20-13

Section 20-30.  Rules, regulations, and rates. 20-14

Section 20-31.  Regulation of streets, alleys, and public places. 20-14

Section 20-32.  Right to acquire. 20-14

Section 20-33.  Assignment of franchise. 20-14

Section 20-34.  Franchise not exclusive. 20-14

 

 


APPENDIXES

 

Appendix A:                         Zoning Ordinance

Appendix A map:                Zoning Map

Appendix A supplement:   Ordinance 186 (SOB)

Appendix No. 1:                  Standards for the Design and Construction of Public Works Projects

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 


Chapter 1 - GENERAL PROVISIONS

Section 1-1.  How code designated and cited.

 

The ordinances embraced in this Chapter and the following Chapters and Sections shall constitute and be designated "The Code of the City of New Buffalo, Michigan" and may be so cited.  The Code may also be cited as "New Buffalo City Code," or the "Code of Ordinances."

Section 1-2.  Rules of construction.

 

In the construction of this Code, and other ordinances of the City, the following rules shall be observed, unless such interpretation and construction would be inconsistent with the manifest intent of the City Council:

 

Charter.  The Charter of the City of New Buffalo.

 

City.  The City of New Buffalo.

 

City Council.  The word "Council" or the words "City Council" mean the legislative body of the City of New Buffalo.

 

Computation of Time.  The time within which an act is to be done, as provided in this Code or in any order issued pursuant to this Code, when expressed in days, shall be computed as prescribed by state statute.

 

County.  The word "County" means the County of Berrien.

 

Gender.  Words importing masculine gender shall apply to females and to firms, associations, partnerships, and corporations.

 

Joint Authority.  All words purporting to give joint authority to three (3) or more public officers or other persons shall be construed as giving such authority to a majority of such officers or other persons unless it is otherwise expressly declared in the Code, Section, ordinance, or resolution granting the authority.

 

Month.  The word "month" shall be construed to mean a calendar month.

 

Number.  Words in either the singular or the plural numbers shall include either or both numbers and may apply in any instance to a particular person or persons.

 

Oath; Affirmation; Sworn; Affirmed.  The word "oath" shall be construed to include the word "affirmation" in all cases where by law an affirmation may be substituted for an oath; and in like cases, the word "sworn" shall be construed to include the word "affirmed."

 

Officers.  The several officers' titles mean such officers of the City.

 

Owner.  The word "owner" applied to a building or land, shall include any part owner, land contract vendee, joint owner, tenant in common, tenant in partnership, joint tenant, or tenant by the entirety, of the whole or of a part of such building or land.

 

Person.  The word "person" includes firms, joint adventures, partnerships, corporations, clubs, and all associations or organizations of natural persons, either incorporated or unincorporated, howsoever operating or named, and whether acting by themselves or by a servant, agent, or fiduciary, and includes all legal representatives, heirs, successors, and assigns thereof.

 

Preceding; Following.  The words "preceding" and "following" mean next before and next after, respectively.

 

Property.  The word "property" shall include real and personal property.

 

Public Place.  The words "public place" means any street, alley, park, cemetery, public building, any place of business or assembly, parking lot, parking area, or any other premises open to the public or frequented by the public.

 

Seal.  In all cases in which the seal of any court or public office shall be required to be affixed to any paper issuing from such court or office, the word "seal" shall be construed to mean the impression of such seal on such paper alone, as well as the impression of such seal affixed thereto by means of a wafer or wax.

 

Shall; May.  The word "shall" means imperative or mandatory; the word "may" means permissive.

 

Signature; Subscription.  The words "signature" and "subscription" include a mark when the person cannot write.

 

State.  The word "state" means the State of Michigan.

 

Sundays; Legal Holidays.  Whenever any act required to be done pursuant to the provisions of this Code or any ordinance falls on a Sunday or legal holiday, that act shall be performed on the next succeeding business day.

 

Tense.  Words used in the present or past tense shall be construed as including the future as well as the present or past.

 

Time.  Whenever time is referred to, it means Eastern Standard Time or Eastern Daylight Savings Time of the time officially in force in the city.

 

Week.  The word "week" shall be construed to mean seven (7) days.

 

Written; In Writing.  The words "written" or "in writing" may include any form or reproduction or expression of language.

 

Year.  The word "year" shall be construed to mean a calendar year; and the word "year" alone shall be equivalent to the words "year of our Lord."

Section 1-3.  Catch lines of Sections, etc.

 

The key words used as catch lines for Chapters, Articles, Divisions, Sections and subsections are inserted for convenience and to facilitate the use of the same.  Such words shall not be construed to limit or effect the meaning of any of the provisions of this Code.

Section 1-4.  Effect of repeal.

 

The repeal of any provision of this Code or any ordinance, or part thereof, shall not release or relinquish any penalty, forfeiture, or liability incurred under such provision of this Code, ordinance, or any part thereof, unless the repealing ordinance shall so expressly provide, and such provision of this Code, ordinance, or any part thereof shall be treated as still remaining in force for the purpose of instituting or sustaining any proper action or prosecution for the enforcement of such penalty, forfeiture, or liability.

 

Whenever any provision of this Code or any ordinance, or any part thereof, is repealed by a subsequent ordinance, such provision of this Code, ordinance, or any part thereof so repealed shall not be revived by the repeal of such subsequent repealing ordinance.


Section 1-5.  Severability of parts of code.

 

If any part of this Code or the application thereof to any person or circumstance shall be found to be invalid by any court, such invalidity shall not effect the remaining parts or applications of this Code which can be given effect without the invalid part or application; provided, that such remaining parts are not determined by the court to be inoperable, and to this end this Code is declared to be severable.

Section 1-6.  Violations as municipal civil infractions; penalties.

 

Whenever in this Code or in any other ordinance of the City, any act is prohibited or is made or declared to be unlawful, an offense, or a municipal civil infraction, or the doing of any act is required or the failure to do any act is declared to be unlawful, an offense, or a municipal civil infraction, the violation of any provision of this Code or any other ordinance of the City shall be punished by a fine not exceeding fifty dollars ($50.00) for a first offense.  A second offense, where no specific penalty is provided therefore, of same shall be punishable by a fine not exceeding one-hundred fifty dollars ($150.00), and a third or subsequent offense, where no specific penalty is provided therefore, shall be punishable by a fine not exceeding five-hundred dollars ($500.00).

 

Should any fine for a municipal civil infraction not be paid within the required time period, or should any municipal civil infraction not be resolved by the Ordinance Violations Bureau, as established in Section 2-5 of this Code, or a court of competent jurisdiction within the required time period, such violation shall become a misdemeanor and subject to the provisions of Section 1-7 of this Code.

 

Except where otherwise provided, all violations of any provision within this Code or any other ordinance of the City shall be deemed a municipal civil infraction, and everyday any violation of this Code or any other ordinance of the City shall continue shall constitute a separate offense.  A copy of the schedule of fines, as may be established from time to time by resolution of the City Council, shall be posted at the Ordinance Violations Bureau as established in Section 2-5 of this Code.

Section 1-7.  Violations as misdemeanors; penalties.

 

Whenever in this Code or in any other ordinance of the City, any act is prohibited or is made or declared to be unlawful, an offense, or a misdemeanor, and is specifically deemed a misdemeanor by a provision within this Code or any other ordinance of the City, or the doing of any act is required or the failure to do any act is declared to be unlawful, an offense, or a misdemeanor, and is specifically deemed a misdemeanor by a provision within this Code or any other ordinance of the City, where no specific penalty is provided thereof, the violation of any provision of this Code or any other ordinance of the City shall be punished by a fine not less than one-hundred dollars ($100.00) and not exceeding five hundred dollars ($500.00), or imprisonment for a term not exceeding ninety (90) days, or by both such fine and imprisonment, in the discretion of a court of competent jurisdiction.  Except where otherwise provided, every day any violation of this Code or any other ordinance of the City shall continue shall constitute a separate offense.

Section 1-8.  Recovery of costs for prosecution.

 

In addition to all other penalties, the City may bring an action for costs of enforcement and prosecution expense upon the person or entity that has violated this Code or any other ordinance of the City.  Such action shall be a civil action in a court of competent jurisdiction.  The action shall be entitled in the name of the City and shall be against the person or entity that has allegedly violated the Code or any other ordinance of the City.

 

Should the City receive a judgment and should the judgment not be satisfied within sixty (60) days of service upon the defendant, the City may, upon thirty (30) days written notice, submit a copy of said judgment to both the City Treasurer and County Treasurer for said costs to be added to the tax bill of the defendant.  The cost of enforcement and prosecution shall be the actual amount of attorney fees and costs of enforcement.  An itemized bill of fees and costs given under oath shall be prima facia evidence of the attorney fees and costs.


 

Chapter 2 - ADMINISTRATION

ARTICLE I.  ORDINANCE VIOLATIONS BUREAU

Section 2-1.  Definitions.

 

As used in this Chapter:

 

A.            "Act" means Act 236 of the Public Acts of 1961, as amended.

 

B.            "Authorized City official" means  the Ordinance Enforcement Officer, Chief of Police, police officer, or other personnel of the City authorized by this Code or any other ordinance to issue municipal civil infraction citations or municipal civil infraction notices.

 

C.            "Bureau" means the City of New Buffalo Ordinance Violations Bureau as established by this Chapter.

 

D.            "Municipal civil infraction action" means a civil action in which the defendant is alleged to be responsible for a municipal civil infraction.

 

E.            "Municipal civil infraction citation" means a written complaint or notice, prepared by an authorized City official, directing a person to appear in court regarding the occurrence or existence of a municipal civil infraction violation by the person cited.

 

F.             "Municipal civil infraction violation notice" means a written notice, prepared by an authorized City official, directing a person to appear at the Ordinance Violations Bureau and to pay the fine and costs, if any, prescribed for the violation by the schedule of civil fines adopted by the City, as authorized under Sections 8396 and 8707(6) of the Act.

Section 2-2.  Municipal civil infraction; commencement.

 

A municipal civil infraction action may be commenced upon the issuance by an authorized City official of:

 

A.            A municipal civil infraction citation directing the alleged violator to appear in court; or

 

B.            A municipal civil infraction violation notice directing the alleged violator to appear at the Ordinance Violations Bureau.

Section 2-3.  Municipal civil infraction citations; issuance and service.

 

Municipal civil infraction citations shall be issued and served by authorized City official as follows:

 

A.            The time for appearance specified in a citation shall be within a reasonable time after the citation is issued.

 

B.            The place for appearance specified in a citation shall be a district court of competent jurisdiction.

 

C.            Each citation shall be numbered consecutively and shall be in a form approved by the State Court Administrator.  The original citation shall be filed with the district court of competent jurisdiction.  Copies of the citation shall be retained by the City and issued to the alleged violator as provided by Section 8705 of the Act.

 

D.            A citation for a municipal civil infraction signed by an authorized City official shall be treated as made under oath if the violation alleged in the citation occurred in the presence of the official signing the complaint and if the citation contains the following statement immediately above the date and signature of the official: "I declare under the penalties of perjury that the statements above are true to the best of my information, knowledge, and belief."

 

E.            An authorized City official who witnesses a person commit a municipal civil infraction shall prepare and subscribe, as soon as possible and as completely as possible, an original and required copies of a citation.

 

F.             An authorized City official may issue a citation to a person if

 

1.             Based upon investigation, the official has reasonable cause to believe that the person is responsible for a municipal civil infraction; or

 

2.             Based upon investigation of a complaint by someone who allegedly witnessed the person commit a municipal civil infraction, the official has reasonable cause to believe that the person is responsible for an infraction, and if the prosecuting attorney, the City Attorney, or the Deputy City Attorney approves in writing the issuance of a citation.

 

G.            Municipal civil infraction citations shall be served by an authorized City official as follows:

 

l.              Except as provided by Section 2-3 (G) (2), an authorized City official shall personally serve a copy of the citation upon the alleged violator.

 

2.             If the municipal civil infraction action involves the use or occupancy of land, a building, or other structure, a copy of the citation does not need to be personally served upon the alleged violator, but may be served upon an owner or occupant of the land, building, or structure by posting the copy on the land or attaching the copy to the building or structure.  In addition, a copy of the citation shall be sent by first class mail to the owner of the land, building, or structure at the owner's last known address.

Section 2-4.  Municipal civil infraction citations; contents.

 

A.          A municipal ordinance citation shall contain the name and address of the alleged violator, the municipal civil  infraction alleged, the place where the alleged violator shall appear in court, the telephone number of the court, and the time at or by which the appearance shall be made.

 

B.            Further, the citation shall inform the alleged violator that he or she may do one of the following:

 

1.             Admit responsibility for the municipal civil infraction by mail, in person, or by representation, at or by the time specified for appearance.

 

2.             Admit responsibility for the municipal civil infraction "with explanation" by mail by the time specified for appearance, or in person, or by representation.

 

3.             Deny responsibility for the municipal civil infraction by doing either of the following:

 

a.             Appearing in person for an informal hearing before a judge or district court magistrate, without the opportunity of being represented by an attorney, unless a formal hearing before a judge is requested by the City.

 

b.             Appearing in court for a formal hearing before a judge, with the opportunity of being represented by an attorney.

 

C.            The citation shall also inform the alleged violator of all of the following:

 

1.             That if the alleged violator desires to admit responsibility "with explanation" in person or by representation, the allege